Expert: Robert Vitt - 7/1/2009

Question
Hi;
I don't think this is the correct forum for this question, but I'm hoping maybe you can help any way. 8 years ago, in Ohio, my now husband's dog bit a stranger. She sued him for $15K. He was a college student at the time--had no money to pay her or to pay a lawyer, so (being a college kid) just ignored the situation--he never even went to court. Nothing came of this AT ALL--no issues with taxes, wage garnishments, no collectors--nothing, until now; we are trying to apply for a mortgage loan in Flordia, where we reside. This judgment showed up on only 1 of his 3 credit reports--but it showed up as a "tax lien." Why is this showing up as a tax lien, and can it affect us getting a loan, or, should we be approved for the loan, negatively affect us in the future, or our house? I have perfect credit, but unfotunately do not have sufficient income on my own to afford the house we would like.  Thanks so much in advance!!!

Answer
Jen,

I will do my best to answer your question!

I am not sure why this judgment shows up as a tax lien, that makes little sense to me.

Anything that shows up on a credit report is likely to affect your being approved for a loan.  

I would suggest you look at nolo.com (NO affiliation)...I believe they have a book on repairing your credit.  If there is false information on there, then there may be someway to repair it.  

I hope this helps,